This impressive entertainment complex and amusement park boasts more than 70 specialty shops, a wide range of affordable dining options, and more. There are a plethora of activities available for visitors of all age groups. The park's traditional carousel keeps the classic festival spirit alive even as the more adventurous rides enthrall thrill-seekers. Shoppers can look for clothes, accessories, leather goods, surfboards, and unique gifts at the colorful stores here. From movie-nights to Karaoke events, Old Town ensures the rush of adrenaline never stops, no matter the day or time!
Lauded as Orlando's best entertainment venue for over a decade, The Social hosts a number of musical events that keep it almost always packed. The club is also known as 'the pit', but only in the best sense of the word. Patrons sit or dance in a pit, while musicians play jazz, rock and other types of music on a stage above. The food, which is served with a Southwestern flare, is good, but the martinis, all 27 varieties, are the club's claim to fame. And if you're planning to throw a party or even a corporate event, there could be no better place than The Social. Let the good times roll!
Aquatica is a whimsical, one-of-a-kind waterpark that’s only in Orlando and could only come from SeaWorld. There is one river where you float through an undersea world of colorful fish and another races you into rolling rapids. There are also slides that spin and soak you, and their incredible signature ride – two awesome, enclosed tube slides that send you speeding through a lively lagoon filled with playful, black and white Commerson’s dolphins. Delight in the serene-to-extreme waters in the gigantic double wave pools and soak in the sun (or the cooling shade) on the white sand beach. Aquatica is where the fun is as endless as the sea itself.
This improv comedy club and dinner theater provides an entertaining and welcoming setting for guests to laugh, drink and have a good time. The acts here are a mix of bigger name performers coming in from out of town and local improv comics honing their craft on stage. This theater is an excellent spot for a date or a night out with friends.
The Black Hammock Adventures Complex provides guests many things to see and plenty to do. It is located on the shoreline of Lake Jesup in Oviedo. Anyone who wants to see Florida's natural beauty or escape from the overcrowded and noisy theme parks should make this quick trip northeast. Make plans to spend a few hours or the entire day, depending on your agenda. The complex features Black Hammock Airboat Rides, The Lazy Gator Bar and Black Hammock Restaurant as well as The Wildlife Exhibit, which includes a marina and gift shop. Come see why the locals are return visitors on a regular basis. -Diane Dilov-Schultheis
The Mennello Museum of American Art is a great destination to check out local art in Orlando. The museum was founded with Old Master and French Impressionist paintings by Florida artist Earl Cunningham that were donated by the Mennello family. Since it was founded in what used to be a private residence in 1998, it has expanded the breadth of its exhibits to include other artists as well. It's worth checking out for the programs they offer, including a scavenger hunt for kids and evening workshops weekend events for families.